Trail Extensions Coming Soon

You may have noticed the signs along the interstate, or at trailheads in areas surrounding the San Elijo Lagoon. In conjunction with Caltrans, SANDAG, Transnet, North County Transit District, 511, California Fish and Wildlife, and the San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy, County Parks is gearing up for improved access along the north coast corridor.

The project, called Build NCC, launched late last year, following a
kick-off event at the San
Elijo Lagoon Nature Center. Speakers shared project
highlights and a timeline, which is slated to occur over 5 years.

A key component of the project is to build 10 miles of pedestrian
and bike trail connections from Solana Beach to Encinitas. Named the
North Coast Bike Trail, paths span in all directions including a new
bridge suspended from the existing San Elijo Lagoon highway bridge.
Also cool are the additions of a new pedestrian undercrossing at the
south end of San Elijo Lagoon, better access at the Chesterfield Drive
crossing, a trail connection between the North and South sides of the
Lagoon near the Nature Center, and the construction of bike and
pedestrian paths at the Interstate 5’s Encinitas Boulevard and Santa
Fe Drive interchanges.

“Trail closures are not permanent, and they are necessary to enhance
access for all trail users, as well as to further restore the lagoon,”
said Jessica Cissel, Region Manager for County Parks along the Central Coast.

Smart construction, with longer bridges and fewer support piers,
will allow for a wider water channel below – adding movement and
growth to this unique estuarine environment under the Pacific Flyway.

“We’re using this as an opportunity to educate people about all of
the interesting things that are happening here at the lagoon,” added
Cissel, “by opening new nature center exhibits, hosting Family Fun
Days and encouraging kids to explore the nation’s most popular TRACK
Trail.”

Nearby, San
Dieguito County Park has beefed up their program offerings
with a handful of new activities like “Coffee with the Ranger” and
“Survival School.” TRACK Trails exist in both the upper and lower park
to meet the interests and abilities of all young patrons, along with
roughly 5 miles of multi-use trails.

For more information about park activities, view the summer edition
of our Activity & Program Guide, or visit the “Find a Park” tab on
our website.